User:MaryShephardG/sandbox

== Private Life and Contributions == Mulry was an old-fashioned man. His manners and tendencies, which reflect those from another time, transcend time and remind us of days before. We see in his character, a love of the truth, simplicity, and personal betterment. Born February 13, 1855, Mulry was born to Irish immigrant Thomas Mulry and convert Parthenia Crolius as the second of fourteen children. Some time away from the city in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, ended Mulry’s formal schooling. Ambitious as he was, Thomas pursued knowledge in other ways. Night classes at Cooper Institute supplemented his earlier education, and opened the door for his interests in sociological elements of the world. Thomas Maurice Mulry was wedded to Mary E. Gallagher on October 6, 1880 - the beginning of the Progressive era. This is where we see Mr. Mulry’s rude awakening to the squalid conditions of those around him in Greenwich Village, where he resided. Contact with those living in miserable, impoverished conditions was quite often. Years after having children – most of whom joined religious orders after growing up in a staunchly Catholic home and environment – Mulry began work as a member of the Superior Council of New York. While working hard at his business, he still managed to find time to offer his services to this society. At this point in time, social and professional philanthropy was becoming “fad-like”. Mulry’s practical experience with the poor, along with his deeply held progressive ideologies, made him an asset to anyone looking for philanthropic opportunities. Fortunately, for those touched by his goodness, Mulry’s work introduced him to a handful of men who were invested in philanthropy and wanted to utilize Mulry’s expertise. These good works did not remain quiet. Word broke out about his care and efforts to aid neglected children, the mentally ill, and private charities. Quickly, there was an outpouring of requests for Mulry to speak at formal events, and address America’s philanthropists. This propelled his efforts even further, and he soon led the charge in growing Catholic charities and in training professionals in social work.